Last Updated on August 26, 2020 by Tim
Cars might be some of the most complicated machinery most people encounter on a daily basis. With all the wiring, moving parts, and fine mechanisms on one hand, and parts powerful enough to push whole tonnes along on the other, it should be small wonder that they can get complicated very quickly.
Even in such a formidable machine, there are still numerous smaller components that must be in working order for the car to run at all. Most of these will be found in or around the engine.
The mass of wiring needed to run most cars, coupled with the complexities of turning fuel to motion, mean that it is packed full of such things.
The oil filter is one such component, small enough to be removed and replaced by hand and yet of critical importance to the continued function of your vehicle. Unfiltered oil can carry everything from simple clots to metal filings into your engine.
The oil filter catches them beforehand and keeps your car running smoothly and safely.
All that said, it should be clear why a good oil filter wrench is important. Without a proper wrench, you will be unable to service your oil filter, and in short order will be unable to use your car.
We’ve picked out five of the best wrenches to help keep you and your car rolling along.
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Comparison Table
PRODUCT | FEATURES | LATEST PRICE |
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1. ABN Oil Filter Cap Wrench |
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2. Lisle 63250 |
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3. Motivx Tools |
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4. Craftsman 9-45570 |
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5. Assenmacher Specialty Tools |
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Our Best Product Reviews and Comparisons
1.ABN Oil Filter Cap Wrench
Product Highlights
This set takes the guesswork out of oil filter maintenance with several premeasured sizes to perfectly fit both standard and exotic vehicles.
Features
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- Set weight 2.4lbs
- Die-cast vanadium
- Fits sizes 24 to 38mm
- Seven sockets included
What We Like About ABN Oil Filter Cap Wrench
With pre measured sizing, this kit allows you to select the oil filter wrench you need quickly and correctly.
What We Don’t Like About ABN Oil Filter Cap Wrench
Because each socket is cast for a predetermined width, this kit will have little use to anyone who happens to have a filter plug of a different measurement.
PROS
- Long lasting
- Extremely accurate
- Set is specifically made to handle more exotic car brands as well
- Storage case included
- Compatible with magnetic pliers
CONS
- Is not adjustable
- Contains more parts than necessary for someone with only one car
2.Lisle 63250
Product Highlights
A top-mounted wrench that works in tight spots and without needing much else.
Features
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- 3 ⅛ “ to 3 ⅞”
- Weighs 16oz
- Welded steel
- One tool, adjustable
What We Like About Lisle 63250
This simple piece of steel works well in tight spots and tight budgets alike.
What We Don’t Like About Lisle 63250
This tool is neither as comfortable nor as versatile as more costly models.
PROS
- Easy to attach
- Inexpensive
- Intuitive use
- Shape prevents slipping
- Works well with extension or breaker bars
CONS
- Can be uncomfortable to use
- Few compatible cap sizes
3.Motivx Tools
Product Highlights
This wrench centers around a spring system that allows it to expand and lock onto nearly any width of oil cap.
Features
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- 2.5” to 3.5” caps
- Cast-steel components
- 13.3 oz
- Single adjustable tool included
What We Like About Motivx Tools
The Motivx wrench’s expandable jaws allow it to be rapidly adjusted to most common filter caps.
What We Don’t Like About Motivx Tools
This tool cannot install or replace the filter cap, only remove it, making a second tool necessary for full service.
PROS
- Adjusts quickly
- Toughened spring
- Lifetime warranty
- Toothed contact points
- Good customer service
CONS
- Not for use in installation
- Not compatible with cartridge filters
4.Craftsman 9-45570
Product Highlights
This wrench set might look a little quirky, but is tough enough for heavy mechanic work and fits precisely to any oil cap with just a few adjustments.
Features
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- Fits items up to 6.75”
- Weighs 15.2 oz
- Made of machine-grade rubber
- Two wrenches included
What We Like About Craftsman 9-45570
This wrench set might look a little quirky, but is tough enough for heavy mechanic work and fits precisely to any oil cap with just a few adjustments.
What We Don’t Like About Craftsman 9-45570
Rubber elements will be subject to far more warping and stretching than a traditional metal wrench.
PROS
- Comfortable grips
- Infinitely adjustable
- More versatile than other oil filter wrenches
- Rubber straps will never scratch or dent
- Lifetime guarantee
CONS
- Will be unfamiliar to many users
- Rubber will not last as long as metal wrenches
5.Assenmacher Specialty Tools
Product Highlights
This tool is made for Volkswagen and BMW cars, but can be easily adapted to other brands with a few simple tools.
Features
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- Fits the VW and BMW hex bolt caps
- Weighs 5.2oz
- Made of cast aluminum
- Single tool included
What We Like About Assenmacher Specialty Tools
This tool is made to perfectly fit some brands, but will work just as well on others with the right wrench and bit.
What We Don’t Like About Assenmacher Specialty Tools
Older BMW and Volkswagen were built with different components that are not compatible with this tool.
PROS
- Made for unusual cap shapes
- Lifetime guarantee
- Adaptable to most brands of cars
- Perfect fit saves time and ensures performance
- Sturdy die-casting to retain shape
CONS
- Relatively costly, especially for a limited tool
- Incompatible with older cars, even of the same brand.
Final Verdict
Oil filters may be small, but they are critical no matter what kind of car you are driving. Taking care of your car means taking care of your oil filter, so make sure you are selecting a wrench that will be suitable for the brand and model of car in question.
Many of these wrenches can be used with a ratchet, pliers, or breaker bar to loosen particularly stubborn caps. While this is a recognized and even sound idea, make sure you are not damaging the wrench itself in the process. The same torque that can break through some dirt or debris on the screw threads can disfigure your wrench and leave it unusable.
It is worth pointing out that many of these wrenches require the user’s hand to be fairly near the oil cap unless an extension is used. Make sure to avoid contact with the oil as it drains, and to thoroughly clean your hands when you have finished working.
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